Supreme Gluten-Free Apple Cake Recipe
Indulge in the warm, comforting embrace of a gluten-free apple cake recipe that’s sure to become a family favourite!
This delightful treat combines the sweet-tart goodness of fresh apples with a moist, tender crumb that’s simply irresistible.
Packed with chunks of juicy apples and a hint of cinnamon, every bite is a celebration of autumn flavours.
The cake’s texture is wonderfully light and fluffy, thanks to a clever blend of gluten-free flours that work their magic in creating the perfect consistency.
Whether you’re serving it as a special dessert or enjoying a slice with your afternoon tea, this gluten-free apple cake is sure to impress both gluten-free and gluten-eating guests alike.
It’s not just a cake; it’s a comforting hug on a plate that proves gluten-free baking can be just as delicious and satisfying as traditional recipes!
Table of Contents
What you’ll love about this recipe
- Perfectly moist and tender cake that’s 100% gluten-free
- Bursting with juicy apple chunks and warm cinnamon flavour
- Easy to make with simple ingredients you likely have on hand
- Versatile dessert suitable for afternoon tea or special occasions
- Keeps well for days, making it ideal for meal prep or gifting
Ingredients
- Apples: You’ll need 300g cooking apples, peeled and chopped into small chunks. These provide a delightful texture and natural sweetness to the cake.
- Gluten-free flour: Use 225g of your favourite gluten-free flour blend. This forms the base of our cake, ensuring it’s safe for coeliacs to enjoy.
- Butter: 125g melted butter, gives richness to the cake.
- Sugar: 100g of brown sugar sweetens the cake perfectly. It balances the tartness of the apples and adds to the overall texture.
- Eggs: 2 large eggs act as a binding agent and contribute to the cake’s structure. They also add richness to the batter.
- Spices: 2 tsp cinnamon, which gives the cake its warmth.
- Milk: 1/4 cup of milk helps to create a smooth batter. You can use dairy-free alternatives if needed.
- Flavourings: 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon add warmth and depth to the cake’s flavour profile.
- Leavening agents: 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder helps the cake rise and achieve a light texture.
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 180C (Gas 4 ). Grease a 1kg loaf tin and line the bottom with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal of the cake after baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, sugar, baking powder, and cinnamon. This step helps distribute the dry ingredients evenly.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix well to combine all the wet ingredients thoroughly.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cake.
- Fold in the chopped apples and sultanas gently. This distributes the fruit evenly throughout the batter.
- Transfer the batter to your prepared 1 kg loaf tin. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking. Sprinkle on the seeds.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, remove the sides of the springform pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
What to Serve with Gluten-Free Apple Cake
This scrumptious gluten-free apple cake is quite versatile when it comes to serving options. For a simple afternoon treat, enjoy a slice on its own with a cup of tea or coffee.
If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, try serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast of temperatures and textures is absolutely divine!
For a cosy autumn dessert, drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the top. It complements the apple flavour beautifully and adds a touch of luxury.
If you’re serving this at a brunch or breakfast, a spoonful of Greek yoghurt on the side adds a tangy contrast and a protein boost. A dusting of icing sugar just before serving can make it look extra special for guests.
Are you ready to try my gluten-free Apple cake recipe? Then let’s get started:
Gluten-Free Apple Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Measuring Jug
- Chopping Board
- Sharp Knife
- Loaf Tin (1kg)
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 125 g Melted butter (4 oz)
- 100 g Brown sugar (3.5 oz)
- 2 Medium eggs
- 300 g Cooking apple peeled and chopped
- 225 g Gluten-free self-raising flour (8 oz)
- 1/2 tsp Gluten-free baking powder
- 2 tsp Ground cinnamon
- 100 g Sultanas (3.50 oz)
- A splash of milk if the mixture is dry
- 1 tbsp Seeds for top of cake
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180℃ (gas 4). Well, grease a 1kg (2 lb) loaf tin.
- Peel and chop the apples. Place in a saucepan and cook down in a little water until soft. Leave to cool.
- Melt the butter in a bowl over a pan of boiling water (bain marie)
- Mix in brown sugar it should look a bit like the consistency of wet sand.
- Add beaten eggs one at a time and mix in well.
- Add the remaining ingredients; cooked apples, flour, baking powder, spices, and sultanas.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf tin.
- Bake in the oven for 45-50 minutes until golden brown.
- To check if it is cooked through pop a skewer inside if it comes out clean it is fully cooked (if it isn't fully cooked keep cooking and checking in 5-minute intervals until done).
- Allow to cool for a few minutes and then remove from the tin and onto a wire rack to fully cool.
- Serve with a little butter, custard, or on its own, delicious.
Nutrition
If you are looking for more yummy gluten-free recipes, check these out👇
- Gluten-Free Courgette Cake (Lime-Iced)
- Gluten-free apple sauce
- Gluten-Free Carrot Cake
- Gluten-Free Fruit Cake
- Gluten-Free Victoria Sponge
- Gluten-free blueberry muffins
- Gluten-free apple crumble
Gluten-Free Apple Cake Tips
Choose the Right Flour
Gluten-Free Flour Blend: Use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum, as it helps with texture and structure. Brands like Pillsbury or Better Batter work well.
Blending Flours: Some recipes suggest blending different types of gluten-free flours, like almond flour, for added texture and flavor.
Select the Perfect Apples
Variety: Opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Gala and Granny Smith, for a balanced flavour.
Preparation: Peel, core, and chop the apples into decent-sized chunks to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the cake.
Don’t Overmix
Gentle Folding: Once you’ve combined the wet and dry ingredients, gently fold in the chopped apples to avoid overmixing the batter.
Enhance Flavors
Spices and Zest: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or a bit of lemon zest to give your cake an extra boost of flavour.
Glaze or Topping: Consider adding a maple cinnamon glaze or a crunchy sugar topping for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Baking Tips
Temperature and Time: Bake at the right temperature (usually around 350°F or 180°C) and keep an eye on the baking time, as it can vary depending on the pan size.
Pan Preparation: Grease your pan properly and line it with parchment paper to prevent food from sticking.
Dairy-Free Options
If you’re aiming for a dairy-free cake, use alternatives like almond milk or coconut milk for the buttermilk and opt for dairy-free butter substitutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of flour is best for gluten-free apple cake?
Use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum for better texture and structure. If your blend doesn’t contain xanthan gum, you can add it separately.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
Grease your pan properly with non-stick cooking spray and line it with parchment paper. For bundt pans, ensure thorough greasing and flouring.
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, you can use a mix of sweet and tart apples like Gala and Granny Smith for a balanced flavour.
How long does gluten-free apple cake keep?
It typically keeps for about 3-5 days at room temperature or in the fridge. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Can I make gluten-free apple cake dairy-free?
Yes, you can make it dairy-free by using dairy-free butter substitutes and non-dairy milk alternatives like almond or coconut milk.
Why does my gluten-free apple cake sometimes turn out dense?
Overmixing the batter or using too much liquid can lead to a dense cake. Ensure you mix ingredients gently and use the right amount of liquid.
Can I freeze prepared apple chunks ahead of time?
Yes, you can freeze apple chunks, but it’s best to use them fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
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Becky Terrell ✍️
Hi, I am Becky. I am a passionate recipe maker and having been a coeliac (celiac) for 30+ years I focus on gluten-free recipes. My blog is my online cookbook of gluten-free tasty recipes. You can follow me on X: @beckygwg
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Looks great, I can already tell it’s going to be so satisfying!